What's the fitness level required?

Moderate fitness is needed. The 6 km trek through Frías Valley involves gentle to moderate ascents and uneven ground, but no rock climbing or technical skills. Most reasonably active travellers complete it comfortably.

Will I actually see glaciers up close?

Yes. You'll trek past three active glaciers—Grande, Cubo, and Dickson—as they feed into Frías Superior Lagoon. The boat and valley walk bring you close enough to witness ice calving and glacial detail without requiring technical mountaineering.

Is lunch really served at Frías Superior Lagoon?

Lunch is planned for the lagoon shore, but it's weather-dependent. High winds may require eating elsewhere en route. The operator prioritises safety and practicality over a specific lunch spot.

How remote is this compared to standard Perito Moreno visits?

Much more remote. This route accesses the South Arm and valley systems that standard glacier tours don't reach, involving boat navigation and extended trekking rather than bus-based viewpoint stops.

Waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, layers, sunscreen, hat, and a camera. The combination of water exposure, glacier reflection, and exposed terrain demands protective gear. Bring a small daypack for snacks and water.

How does the 11-hour duration break down?

Roughly 2–3 hours transport and boat navigation, 2 hours for the valley trek, 1 hour ascent/descent to viewpoints, and 1–2 hours at various stops for photos and rest. Remaining time covers transfers and contingencies.

Calafate Southern Navigation Perito Moreno and Valley Trekking 1

Calafate Southern Navigation Perito Moreno and Valley Trekking 3

Calafate Southern Navigation Perito Moreno and Valley Trekking 4

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Calafate Southern Navigation Perito Moreno and Valley Trekking

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El Calafate, Argentina

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About this activity

Combine glacier viewing with remote valley trekking on this 11-hour expedition combining boat navigation and hiking in Los Glaciares National Park. You'll access Frías Lake and its surrounding glaciers—Grande, Cubo, and Dickson—via a route most tourists never reach, combining water-based exploration with an immersive 6 km trek through pristine wilderness.

Starting early in the morning, we head towards the heart of Lago Argentino, where we will embark on an exciting navigation to the bottom of the South Arm.

Upon disembarking, an unforgettable walk to the serene Frías Lake awaits us. After a gentle ascent, we will reach the natural viewpoint, from where we can marvel at the panoramic views of Lake Frías and its surroundings before descending towards its shore.

We will board the Fitzcarraldo boat to sail through the crystalline waters of a dazzling emerald tone, sailing 5 km to the other shore. From there, we will begin a 6 km trek through the Frías River valley, getting closer and closer to the imposing glaciers.

Along the way we will witness a landscape in constant change, surrounded by majestic Grande, Cubo and Dickson glaciers, which spill their ice towards the Frías Superior Lagoon. We will have lunch on the shores of the Frías Superior Lagoon if the wind conditions allow it.

Highlights

✓Navigate Lago Argentino's South Arm by boat to remote access points
✓Trek 6 km through Frías River valley surrounded by three active glaciers
✓Ride the Fitzcarraldo boat across emerald-coloured Frías Lake (5 km crossing)
✓Reach natural viewpoint overlooking Frías Lake with panoramic glacier views
✓Lunch on Frías Superior Lagoon shores (weather permitting)
✓Witness dynamic glacial landscape with constant ice calving and movement

Insider tips

★Start as early as possible; the full 11-hour itinerary maximises glacier light and reduces afternoon wind disruptions for lagoon-side dining
★Wind conditions heavily affect lunch plans at Frías Superior—be flexible and enjoy packed meals during windier days without disappointment
★Bring layers and a windproof jacket; Patagonian weather changes rapidly, especially near glaciers and open water
★The Fitzcarraldo boat crossing is the highlight for many; position yourself on deck early for unobstructed photography of the glacier-ringed lake

Good to know

•Total duration is 11 hours including transport, navigation, and trekking—plan for a full day commitment
•Moderate fitness required; the 6 km valley trek involves gentle to moderate inclines and uneven terrain
•Bring waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, and a hat; sun reflects intensely off glaciers and water
•Lunch is provided but verify dietary requirements in advance; remote location limits on-site alternatives
•Meeting point and vehicle pickup details will be confirmed post-booking; allow 30–45 minutes for initial navigation to Lago Argentino

Who it's for

Adventure hikers seeking off-the-beaten-path glacier accessNature photographers wanting dynamic glacier and alpine lake compositionsFit leisure travellers combining water-based and land-based explorationLuxury travel groups willing to invest in exclusive, less-crowded experiences

Best time to visit

Visit November to March (Southern Hemisphere spring/summer) for stable weather, longer daylight, and optimal glacier visibility. Early morning departures are essential to avoid afternoon wind that may prevent lunch service at the lagoon.